House Democrat Seeks Ethics Review of Qatari Jet Gift to Trump

Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-N.Y.) has called for an immediate ethics investigation into reports that the Trump administration plans to accept a $400 million luxury Boeing 747-8 jet from Qatar, which would temporarily serve as Air Force One and later become part of Trump's presidential library. Torres argues that this gift, described as a 'flying grift,' could be the most valuable gift ever conferred on a U.S. president by a foreign government and may violate the Constitution's Emoluments Clause, which prohibits public officials from accepting gifts from foreign states. He criticized Attorney General Pam Bondi and the Justice Department for approving the transaction, contending it undermines both federal ethics rules and constitutional law. Torres also highlighted concerns about Qatar's controversial history and its support of terrorist organizations, drawing a stark comparison between the gifted plane and Hamas. The Democratic National Committee and other Democrats have condemned the deal as corruption and presidential profiteering, while ABC News reported that the Justice Department has drafted an analysis suggesting it would be legal for the Defense Department to accept the gift. The controversy has sparked bipartisan unease and may become a focal point for congressional scrutiny when lawmakers return to session.